The aroma from the tin is like nearly every other English blend I've had before: briney, peaty, and smokey, much like a good Islay scotch. The tobacco was a little too moist upon opening the tin and needed to sit out for about 15 minutes before being ready to pack a bowl.

Heart of Darkness lights up easily, stays lit very well, and produces thick plumes of smoke. Strength starts just below the medium mark, but builds as you progress, settling at noticeably above medium by the end of the bowl.

At the start there are notes of earth and cinnamon, as well as an undertone of dark fruit and pepper. At the half way point, the pepper becomes the dominant flavor and the fruit goes away. Despite the smell, there is very little of the briney, saltiness from the Latakia.

I would not recommend this blend for a morning smoke, unless you're looking for something on the stronger side to jolt you awake. Heart of Darkness seems to fit in perfectly after a long day's work, to help the stress melt away. If you like the other blends in the Marquee Series, Heart of Darkness is definitely for you.